United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has sharply criticised former President Uhuru Kenyatta following his recent remarks on the state of the economy and rising cost of living, accusing him of working to undermine President William Ruto’s administration.
In a strongly worded open letter released on Tuesday, UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire and Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan claimed the former Head of State had failed to accept the outcome of the 2022 General Election and continued to target the Kenya Kwanza government.
“We have heard you loud and clear. First, temper your intense bitterness, fierce jealousy, endless envy, and toxic obsession with William Ruto,” part of the statement read.
The party accused Uhuru of leaving behind a struggling economy weighed down by debt, inflation and weakened public institutions, while arguing that the current administration had managed to stabilise the economy and avoid a possible financial crisis.
UDA further defended the government’s performance in sectors including agriculture, health, education and infrastructure.
According to the party, programmes such as subsidised fertiliser, improved coffee prices and the revival of sugar factories had helped support farmers, while the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) was aimed at expanding healthcare access.
The party also cited ongoing affordable housing projects, recruitment of teachers and revival of stalled road projects as part of the administration’s achievements.
On the issue of rising fuel prices, UDA maintained that the government was pursuing long-term energy solutions instead of relying on short-term subsidies.
The party said the administration was investing in renewable energy, electric mobility and local oil production to reduce the country’s vulnerability to global fuel market shocks.
At the same time, UDA accused the former president of taking advantage of public frustrations, particularly among young people, to weaken confidence in the government.
“Since leaving office, you have dedicated yourself to undermining the very government you handed over. You operate from behind the scenes, mobilising political hostility, fueling public anger, and quietly hoping the country fails,” the statement added.
The response from UDA follows remarks made by Uhuru during a Jubilee Party delegates meeting held at Kiambu Golf Club on Monday, where he criticised the government over the rising cost of living and increasing economic pressure facing many households.
The former president urged leaders to focus on the challenges affecting ordinary Kenyans instead of engaging in divisive politics.
“Issue ni simple… watu wanapiga kelele kwa sababu mimi ni mtu mshahara wangu ni Ksh.20,000, Ksh.800 inaenda kwa mafuta, Ksh.12,000 inaenda kwa kodi. Hiyo ndiyo shida, ongelesha shida,” Uhuru said.
“Wakenya hawatakula maneno akiwa na njaa. Barabara hazijengwi na maneno,” he added.
